Burns

The severity of the burn depends on the extent and number of layers involved.

There are several different types of burns which are classified by their cause:

heat-dry heat (fire), moist heat (steam), friction (carpet burn)
corrosive chemicals (acids)
electric current
radiation (the sun)

Signs

1st degree- only the top layer is affected
red, dry skin
slight swelling
mild to moderate pain

2nd degree-also known as a partial thickness burn because both layers of skin are affected
very red skin
blisters
moderate to extreme pain

3rd degree burn-very severe burn as damage may extend to the muscle
white waxy skin or black skin
casualty usually feels little pain in the deeply burned areas

Medical help should be sought when the burn is deep, covers a large area, is located anywhere that could interfere with breathing, is caused by chemicals or electricity, involves an infant or an elderly person.

Chemical burns

corrosive chemicals will burn for as long as they are in contact with the skin, therefore it is important that they are flushed with water as soon as possible
continue flushing the area for 15-20 minutes
cover the burn
seek medical help

Electrical burns

Electrical burns may cause 3rd degree burns, cardiac arrest (heart stops), breathing difficulties and even fractures or dislocations.

Procedure

shut off the source of the current or get the casualty away from the electrical current
ensure the ABC's are intact
give first aid to any wounds
seek medical help

Never try to help a casualty unless you are sure the power supply is off.

Radiation burns

There is no specific first aid for radiation burns caused by x-rays or nuclear radiation, seek medical help immediately.

Sunburns

sponge the burned area with cool water or cover with a cool cloth
apply sunburn ointment
protect burned areas from the sun
if the casualty vomits seek medical help immediately
Don't break blisters